Very early puberty linked to psychological problems

Girls who start puberty early are likely to face an increased risk of psychological problems, a new study suggests.

Researchers at Alexandra Hospital in Redditch conducted a review of 'precocious' puberty, in which the girl starts to develop breast or pubic hair before the age of eight.

They concluded that the condition can be linked to both physical problems - such as compromised height in adulthood - and psychological issues as a result of higher levels of hormones normally found in older girls.

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In addition, the study authors warned that girls who undergo puberty at a very early age may face an increased risk of sexual abuse and early pregnancy.

Sakunthala Sahithi Tirumuru, from Alexandra Hospital's Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, co-authored the review in The Obstetrician and Gynaecologist.

She concluded: 'Starting puberty early can have a significant impact both psychologically and socially on both the child and her family.

'This all needs to be considered by the healthcare team and further studies are needed to evaluate the effects of hormone treatment on quality of life and long-term impact.'

The average age at which girls begin puberty is 11, with the majority beginning between the ages of eight and 14 and reaching sexual maturity within four years.

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